
Paroxysm
Intensity Indicator
Use 'paroxysm' to describe an intense episode of an emotion or activity, suggesting it's extreme.
He collapsed in a paroxysm of grief at the news.
Unexpected Eruption
'Paroxysm' often implies the event is sudden and may surprise those around.
A paroxysm of laughter overtook her during the solemn ceremony.
Brief Duration
A 'paroxysm' typically does not last a long time; it's a brief outburst.
After a short paroxysm of anger, he regained his composure. Compare with
AttackBoutConvulsionCrisisFitOutburstSeizureSpasm
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